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Radiation protection technicians monitor and control radiation exposure in various environments, including healthcare, research, and nuclear power plants. They evaluate radiological materials, handle radiation badges, provide safety training, and participate in safety system design. A high school diploma and two years of experience are typically required, and professional organizations offer continuing education opportunities.
A radiation protection technician monitors radiation levels and addresses concerns about exposure. People in this field can work in any environment where radiologically active material is handled, such as healthcare environments, research facilities, and nuclear power plants. Some may also work in natural environments where radiation is present due to contamination or natural circumstances. As the job title implies, radiation protection technicians work to control exposure to keep people, animals, and the natural environment safe.
Part of this work involves the evaluation of radiological materials. Radiation protection technicians can test samples, including air and water, to determine what types and concentrations of material are present. The radiation protection technician can determine if the levels are high enough to pose a risk and what types of measures need to be taken to address them. As a complement to this job, the technician cleans, maintains and repairs equipment used in radiation monitoring and testing.
In addition to testing materials, a radiation protection technician may also handle radiation badges used for safety in nuclear facilities. Personnel at these facilities must wear badges designed to monitor their exposure levels. The technician periodically tests the badges to identify employees at risk for health complications. Technicians can also provide equipment training, advice on protective clothing, and other safety instructions to a facility’s personnel to reduce their exposure levels and keep them as safe as possible.
Radiation protection technicians can participate in the design and implementation of safety systems. This may include barrier walls to prevent radiation leaks, protocols for dealing with contamination, and recommendations for protective equipment in radioactive environments. This may require cooperation and consultation with engineers, healthcare providers and other interested parties contributing to the protection provided in a facility. In the case of environmental contamination, this process may include discussions about cleanup and containment with engineers who can respond to the situation, as well as site monitoring during cleanup to detect dangerously high levels of radiation.
To become a radiation protection technician, you usually need a high school diploma and at least two years of experience. Some colleges offer training programs for radiation technicians and technologists. It is also possible to join a professional organization, usually by taking an exam to determine the level of skill and competence. These organizations provide continuing education opportunities, such as trade journals and conferences, to allow a radiation protection technician to develop and refine professional skills.
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